Meet our new Property Manager: Donna Barry

Tell us a little about yourself?

I am a mother of 4 wonderful children: 3 boys and 1 girl, which keeps me busy outside of my work life. I enjoy spending time outdoors with my family and I have recently become a scout leader in our local group where I organise hikes and camps. I also love sea swimming and cycling and I’m currently training for a triathalon.

How long have you worked in property management?
I’ve worked in Property Management for over 15 years.

How long have you worked with O’Neill and Co.?
I joined in February of this year but it feels like longer; everyone has been very welcoming and there’s a great team spirit. It’s a busy role but I was able to hit the ground running straight away. I had worked with Darac many moons ago in another property company, so that helped me settle in quickly too.

Tell us about your role as Property Manager with O’Neill & Co?
In general, my responsibilities include: client management and reporting, managing outsourced contractors, setting and collecting rent, handling maintenance requests, lease renewals and rent reviews, and setting the budget and controlling expenditure for the property. 

What do you like most about your role at O’Neill & Co.?
I like the variety of the portfolio which includes the M7 Business Park among others. I get to apply my qualifications, training and experience in property management, working with great clients: problem-solving, planning and budgeting.

It’s also an advantage to work with such a well-respected and highly regarded brand. Darac and the team have grown a business with a reputation for integrity, expertise, open communication and genuine helpfulness and friendliness. They’ve built strong ties among a range of stakeholders from local business owners to international brands, and with a nationwide network of Chartered Surveyors; all of which help me in my role and enhance my own career.

The fact that the majority of our clients are returning clients and the company has won business based on recommendations from existing clients and tenants really highlights the quality of the work we do at O’Neill & Co. It’s nice to be associated with such a strong local brand.  

Describe a typical day at O’Neill & Co.
No two days are the same; I work on different properties throughout the week. Depending on the property I could be looking at tendering for an upcoming budget, arranging works to the common areas or to the property, reviewing maintenance schedules, carrying out site visit, or organising repairs to be carried out by a third-party contractor. Another day I could be meeting clients and reviewing projects, renewing insurance, reviewing leases, contacting tenants about arrears. The days are busy but I love the variety. 

What advice would you give to property owners when looking for a property management company?

• Take a look at the properties that the agent currently manages to see if you would be satisfied with the way they are managed.
• Speak with the person who will be managing your portfolio and discuss how they envisage your property being managed; ask as many questions as possible to ensure that you are comfortable with their experience and will provide the level of input you would expect.
• Look for recommendations from people you know and who have engaged with property management companies before. 

We are delighted to have Donna on board and she is proving a popular property manager with our clients. If you would like to discuss our Property Management Services, please contact the office on 045 856604.